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      06-11-2013, 06:35 PM   #1
Villanofun
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Purchasing a Used Car - On-site Inspections

I am in the market for a used M3 and while I am looking at some locally and a great distance away, I am thinking of using an ASE certified technician to perform inspections of one vehicle in Florida and one in Bronx. I was wondering if anyone has information on inspectors in these regions or any personal experience with inspectors anywhere in the country. I performed a quick search and did not uncover any relevant information. Thanks for the help!
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      06-13-2013, 01:14 PM   #2
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I bought 2 used cars that where 1000 miles away. I used Carchex on both of them and they did a great job very detailed report. They did everything I would do on a test drive and more. Hope that helps.
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      06-13-2013, 01:55 PM   #3
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It would help if we knew your location to recommend a shop
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      06-14-2013, 07:01 AM   #4
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I am currently in Philadelphia but I am looking within a 1000 mile radius.
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      06-14-2013, 09:59 AM   #5
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Who is selling the cars you are looking at, BMW dealer, used car dealer or private party?
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      06-14-2013, 12:11 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by fuddman View Post
Who is selling the cars you are looking at, BMW dealer, used car dealer or private party?
It has varied a bunch, but I will probably end up going private party.
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      06-14-2013, 05:46 PM   #7
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If I were in your position, I would have it inspected by a BMW dealer.
I read on this site that dealers can do a Pre-sale Inspection and they cost in the vicinity of $200. Using the VIN, dealers can also provide you with a maintenance history on the car; but, you may have to try and convince the dealer to reveal it.
I know of cars being sold, sight unseen, where the seller, prior to the sale, of course, agrees to take it to the dealer for just such an inspection and agrees the sale hinges on the the inspection results.
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      06-15-2013, 10:14 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by fuddman View Post
If I were in your position, I would have it inspected by a BMW dealer.
I read on this site that dealers can do a Pre-sale Inspection and they cost in the vicinity of $200. Using the VIN, dealers can also provide you with a maintenance history on the car; but, you may have to try and convince the dealer to reveal it.
I know of cars being sold, sight unseen, where the seller, prior to the sale, of course, agrees to take it to the dealer for just such an inspection and agrees the sale hinges on the the inspection results.
I have already spoken with my local dealer many times regarding other BMW's, and they have been very helpful regarding maintenance histories. The ASE certified professionals usually charge between $150 and $200 for a "450-point inspection."
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      06-19-2013, 02:00 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Villanofun View Post
I have already spoken with my local dealer many times regarding other BMW's, and they have been very helpful regarding maintenance histories. The ASE certified professionals usually charge between $150 and $200 for a "450-point inspection."
Damn. I imagine that would take a while to accomplish. Good topic. I always wondered the same about buying a used car far away.
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      06-19-2013, 07:55 PM   #10
Villanofun
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I think when you are talking about spending over $20,000, a 1% fee to get a piece of mind is not a big problem if you are relatively sure that is the vehicle you are going to end up purchasing. The only issue is that they do not opine on the integrity of the frame, which is clearly a major issue.
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      06-20-2013, 02:18 AM   #11
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Does BMW check the frame?
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      06-21-2013, 12:36 PM   #12
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I am not sure.

I am pleased to report that I have purchased a (relatively) local member's 2008 E92 M3 (alpine white) with 35,000 miles on it. I am picking her up on Sunday, and I am incredibly excited.
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      06-21-2013, 12:40 PM   #13
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congrats
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